Today in politics: Thursday, October 24

National MP Colin King chose to see the funny side of Labour MP Jacinda Ardern's attacks over the Government's treatment of the New Zealand cinema industry, although the Kaikoura MP's joke was perhaps a little off the mark. "Labour's Ardern is concerned about the poor times for cinema in Auckland – isn't that ‘wicked'," he tweeted. Ms Ardern was unimpressed. "Just FYI-that's a broadway musical," she replied.

RETHINK FOR TAX ON PLAINCLOTHES POLICE

Police Minister Anne Tolley has persuaded Inland Revenue Minister Todd McClay to back away from a plan to tax plainclothes police officers on their clothing allowance. Mrs Tolley told a Police Association conference yesterday that Mr McClay was sympathetic. ‘‘I’m hopeful that we are going to get an outcome soon which will satisfy everyone.’’ The tax on more than 2000 staff was due to come into force on July 1, but police sought a review.

THREE TREATY BILLS PASS FIRST READINGS

Three Treaty of Waitangi settlement bills have unanimously passed their first readings in Parliament. Minister for Treaty Negotiations Christopher Finlayson said the Te Urewera-Tuhoe Bill would settle historical Ngai Tuhoe claims, create a new legal identity for Te Urewera and address ‘‘some of the most appalling acts by the Crown in New Zealand’s history’’. Ngati Haua would receive $13 million and have culturally significant sites returned.

THREE MORE YEARS FOR O'CONNOR

Greg O’Connor, the voice of the working copper for nearly two decades, was yesterday re-elected Police Association president for a further three years. He was first elected in 1995. ‘‘Experienced leadership is needed as our members navigate the challenges and uncertainties of restructuring and embrace new ways of working,’’ he said at the association’s annual conference.